N
The Global Insight

Is Cambodia poor?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on February 14, 2026

Cambodia remains on the list of developing countries, despite recent economic growth. Statistics from 2014 showed that about 13.5% of the country’s total population continue to live in extreme poverty, down from 53% in 2004.

Why is Cambodia a third world country?

Cambodia is technically a third world country and is one of the poorest nation’s in the world. About a third of its citizens live on less than a dollar a day. Farming is the main industry for these people and there is a level of subsistence living where they grow what they need and have trouble affording extra items.

Is Cambodia one of the poorest countries in the world?

Cambodia is currently one of the poorest countries in the world. Its per-capita income is only US$260. However, if adjusted for purchasing power parity (which takes into account the low prices for goods in Cambodia), its per-capita income jumps rather dramatically to US$1300.

Is Cambodia safe to live?

Most expats agree that Cambodia is a safe place to live. In fact, many would say that it’s safer than the big cities back home. Most of the violence in the country occurs between locals, but expats are often targeted for muggings and break-ins.

What is the average salary in Cambodia?

A person working in Cambodia typically earns around 3,310,000 KHR per month. Salaries range from 838,000 KHR (lowest average) to 14,800,000 KHR (highest average, actual maximum salary is higher). This is the average monthly salary including housing, transport, and other benefits.

Is Cambodia a peaceful country?

General Introduction to Peace and Security in Cambodia After decades of turbulence Cambodia has achieved peace, stability, and economic development, and has become to some extent a democracy with pluralism, and a civil society has strongly emerged after the Peace Agreement.

Is Vietnam safer than Cambodia?

Vietnam or Cambodia – Dangers & Annoyances Vietnam is an overall safer place with fewer scams and annoyances to watch out for. Both countries are perfectly safe for travellers and most scams are avoided just by being smart and aware.

What is the most common job in Cambodia?

Cambodia’s two largest industries are textiles and tourism, while agricultural activities remain the main source of income for many Cambodians living in rural areas. The service sector is heavily concentrated on trading activities and catering-related services.